If you’re about to graduate from high school or you’re looking for a new career, you should be exploring all of your options. While a four-year degree is the right choice for some people, it’s not the only path to a great career and professional future. Trade schools offer students opportunities to learn skills that are highly valued in the marketplace and they can offer some solid advantages over a four-year degree program.
There are many benefits to a trade school education, but prospective students often have some misconceptions. Let’s dispel a few common myths.
MYTH: Trade School is for People Who Didn’t Get into College
Actually, trade school is for people who know what they want to do and would prefer to start their career in less than four years. In fact, many programs can be completed in under 24 months. Students learn important skills that prepare them to enter highly competitive fields. Trade school students begin learning their field of study right away… and they get to begin practicing hands-on skills early in their program.
MYTH: Trade Schools Aren’t Challenging
Trade schools prepare students to enter the workforce, which includes a combination of in-class and hands-on training. Technological advances in many career fields mean that students in programs like Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR) are required to have computer skills so they can install, troubleshoot and repair complex systems. Plus, students have opportunities to participate in internships that provide real-life experience. Additionally, students need to develop strong interpersonal skills to they can more effectively deal with customers. Trade Schools like Fortis help students practice active listening skills so they will able to ask the customer questions and explain service options.
MYTH: Trade Schools Don’t Offer Financial Aid
School can be expensive, and traditional colleges have entire offices devoted to financial aid. So do trade schools. You may qualify for grants, loans, and even scholarships. And trade school is typically less expensive than a traditional four-year college education.
MYTH: Trade School Graduates Won’t Get Good Jobs
As technology continues to make equipment more advanced and tools more sophisticated, the knowledge required to operate, install, and troubleshoot them becomes more complex. As a result, the job of trade technicians has become more sophisticated and in-demand. In HVACR alone, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says job opportunities for HVACR techs are expected to be good over the next decade. In fact, in some parts of the country, HVACR technicians are hired into entry-level positions immediately upon graduating.
The bottom line is that the Skilled Trades are a great option for students who want to pursue a rewarding professional career path with lots of potential for growth. And Fortis can help you get started. Visit our website for more information and to find a training program near you. Or, call 1-855-436-7847 to speak with a representative today.